'I know that she would have wanted me to carry on.'

On Tuesday (29 August), the former ‘X Factor’ winner posted an emotional statement on Twitter, revealing her mum had died the previous day.

PA Wire/PA Images
Alexandra Burke has announced the death of her mother

Paying tribute to her “beautiful” mum - who was a lead singer of R&B act Soul II Soul, before fronting group Soul Explosion - Alexandra wrote: “It is with the heaviest and saddest of hearts that the family inform you our beautiful, funny and loving mum, Melissa Bell, has passed away.

“Our beautiful mother gained her wings on Monday 28th August 2017, a day that changed out lives forever.

“We will never forget her unconditional love, support, charisma, strength and courage throughout her life.

“We are eternally proud and thankful to call her our mummy.

“We would be grateful if you could respect our privacy at this difficult time,” she added.

While it is unclear if she had learned of her mother’s death at the time of her appearance, Alexandra has confirmed she will be staying with the BBC ballroom show, as it had always been a “dream” of her mum’s for her to take part.